“I think the biggest problem with the Vietnamese team is psychological.”, coach Velizar Popov - the Bulgarian expert leading the Thanh Hoa club - commented.
According to Coach Popov, the quality of the opponent's squad and playing style have not improved to the point of surpassing the Vietnamese team. This coach believes that as long as the problem of spirit and confidence is resolved, the home team is capable of defeating Indonesia in the second leg.
The Vietnamese team lost to Indonesia in the first leg.
– The Vietnamese team lost 9 matches in the last 10 matches, including 2 defeats against Indonesia. Observing the performance of the Vietnamese team recently, what problems do you see?
The Vietnamese team went through a difficult time with unsatisfactory results. As a coach in the V.League, my position is not suitable to evaluate whether the Vietnamese team's tactics are good or not. I respect Mr. Philippe Troussier.
I think the biggest problem with the Vietnamese team is psychological. They lost in their last two confrontations with Indonesia, both due to bad luck and personal mistakes.
I noticed that in the 180 minutes of confrontation with Indonesia, the Vietnamese team was overwhelmed for about 60 minutes, especially in the last 30 minutes of the second half when they were leading. The players seem mentally depressed.
The rest of the time, I don't see the Indonesian team playing better or dominating the Vietnamese players. The problem is that the Vietnamese team must finish better at opportunities. If you only control the ball without finishing, your attacks will be ineffective. If you don't shoot, you can't score.
The Vietnamese team lost to the Indonesian team in the first leg.
– Does that mean that with enough confidence and psychological control, the Vietnamese team will win against Indonesia?
I partly understand the psychology of Vietnamese players and the Vietnamese people - a country with a special culture. If you have to find a team in Southeast Asia that is always ready to overcome difficult circumstances and withstand pressure, it is the Vietnamese team.
You guys are very good at this. I'm sure Vietnamese players are ready to fight and win.
Coach Popov puts his faith in the Vietnamese team.
– It cannot be denied that the Indonesian team is stronger thanks to naturalized players with European blood.
The biggest difference between the Indonesian team in the last two matches compared to before is the physical aspect. Naturalized players with European blood are taller and stronger than native players. However, they do not excel in agility and technique.
Put on the scale, the above change does not make a significant difference. They are still young players and not really perfected. However, this naturalized group can make an impact in the future but currently, they are not superior to Vietnamese players.
As mentioned, I don't see them overwhelming the Vietnamese team in the past 2 victories. It should be recognized that the Indonesian team made a difference in efficiency and taking advantage of the Vietnamese team's mistakes. This is very important for modern football.
Coach Troussier really needs a win against Indonesia.
– The Vietnamese team needs players like Quang Hai, Hoang Duc, Tien Linh to promote their star qualities - something that hasn't happened in a long time?
Surely the Vietnamese team can win if the players you just mentioned play according to their abilities. They deserve a chance and support from their fans.
Vietnamese fans need to pack the stadium and create the best atmosphere. That helps the Vietnamese team have a better spirit. Confidence is the most important thing right now.
This is a decisive match. All qualities of the players are tested, not only technique and physical strength but also mental qualities and performance. That is the foundation of the match.
This duel is for real men, with hot hearts and cool heads. There is no room for the weak. They must concentrate maximally from the moment the whistle blows to start the match until the end of the match. The belief in victory is the most important thing.
– A series of poor performances reduces fans' confidence in the Vietnamese team's ability to win. What about you?
I think the Vietnamese team will win with a score of 2-0. If they can control the pace of play, the Vietnamese team is capable of defeating their opponents.
The match at SEA Games 31 is an example. In the first half, U23 Indonesia started better, had 2-3 dangerous opportunities, but in the second half, Vietnamese players showed a completely different side and defeated their opponents with a score of 2-3.
I believe the Vietnamese team will win against Indonesia. Your World Cup dream depends on this match.
Personally, I am still among the 20% who trust coach Troussier.
– Thank you for your comments.
